According to CNN, the Pentagon and the U.S. Central Command are conducting a preliminary review of U.S. military capabilities against Syria in the event that military action is called upon. The Obama administration maintains, however, that it will exhaust all non-military options before turning to force. In addition, the administration continues to maintain that it does not support arming the Syrian rebels at this point, instead favoring the creation of a contact group with them to strengthen ties.

The options for the anti-Asad countries are narrowing. If the White House will not arm the rebels or intervene militarily, it seems that immediately building an international coalition outside of the United Nations that leaves out Russia and China would be an important next step. Reports out Wednesday claim that Turkey is now making such a move, again leaving this administration in the dust when it comes to taking the lead against regimes killing their people in light of the Arab uprisings.

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